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critical congenital heart disease
Severe heart defects present at birth requiring intervention within the first year of life.
Full Definition
Critical congenital heart disease refers to a group of serious heart defects that are present at birth and require surgical intervention or catheter-based procedures within the first year of life. These conditions can be life-threatening if not detected early. Pulse oximetry screening in newborns helps identify these conditions before symptoms develop, improving outcomes through early treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'critical congenital heart disease' in full on first reference, then CCHD.
In Context
- "Pulse oximetry screening detected critical congenital heart disease in the 48-hour-old infant." — screening report
- "Critical congenital heart disease affects approximately 1 in 4,000 newborns." — epidemiological study
Also known as
CCHD
Contrasted with
mild congenital heart disease
Don't confuse with
congenital heart disease
acquired heart disease